This new AOC hidden behind Saint-Emilion was created in 1989. It offers refined and concentrated Merlot-based red wines.
Castillon-la-bataille recalls tragic memories of events in the history of France and England (the battle that took place here marked the end of the 100 Years' War).
However, above all it is a vineyard that has been producing wines for a long time that are authentic, generous, powerful, fruity and flavourful. Several wine growers have older vines that produce concentrated wines with a good longevity.
The terroir of Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux offers top quality soil for growing vines: on the side of the hills and on the plateau, the soil is composed of clay and limestone, with some sandstone. The wines produced here are concentrated and powerful. At the bottom of the hills, on the alluvial terrace, closer to the river, the soil contains more silt and sand, with stones. The wines here are smoother, charming and pleasant.
Merlot is the primary grape variety in the AOC (70% of vines planted) due to the clay-limestone soils and the more continental weather. Cabernet Franc comes in second (20%) and on warmer plots Cabernet Sauvignon (more difficult to mature) is also planted.
With a maximum yield of 50 hL/ha, Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux reds are always expressive wines. They have notes marked by ripe red berries, and pitted fruit (plums and cherry). According to the vintage, and the domains, there are also aromas of dark plums, leather and raspberry. But with solid but finely structured tannins, there is an ample, generous texture with a good finish.
The production of this appellation may also be sold under the Côtes de Bordeaux AOC.
Average yearly production: 124 850 Hl
Surface declared (2009): 2 270 Ha
Visit the Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux appellation’s web site.
